The Cochrane-Fountain City School District is implementing a new science curriculum to meet upcoming state standards and tweak courses for college bound students.

Language arts teacher and curriculum planner Terri Karsten told the school board that
science curriculum would incorporate more emphasis on critical thinking practices and engineering.

New science textbooks for all grades would include earth science in grade 8, physical science in grade 9, biology in grade 10 and physics in grade 11.

Junior and senior course offerings were updated to include courses in environmental science and project research and engineering.

A tougher chemistry course that promises to challenge students and better prepare them for college also will be available to juniors and seniors.

Karsten said science enhancements in the elementary grades might require increased staff development and training in use of class materials.

Curriculum updating already accomplished in math, business, social studies, music, art, health and physical education will be evaluated and assessed this school year.